Tensions Rise: States Implement Security Measures Amid India-Pakistan Strife
Heightened Security Measures Across Multiple States
In light of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, several states have enacted strict security protocols, including school closures, blackouts in border areas, and the cancellation of leave for police and administrative staff. These measures have been implemented in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal following India's military actions against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, a response to the tragic Pahalgam incident that resulted in 26 fatalities on April 22.
Punjab, which shares a 532-km border with Pakistan, has taken significant steps, including the cancellation of all police personnel leaves and the closure of schools in six border districts: Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran, until further notice.
Officials announced an eight-hour blackout in Gurdaspur starting at 9 PM Thursday as a precautionary measure. Punjab Minister Aman Arora emphasized the critical role of the state government during military tensions, stating that all border districts are on high alert.
In Haryana, the leave of police and health department personnel has also been revoked, with a directive ensuring that officials remain at their district headquarters. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh has increased security in its border districts, including Hamirpur, Una, and Bilaspur, which are home to several renowned temples.
Rajasthan has similarly canceled leave for police and administrative staff near the International Border and closed schools in five bordering districts. A blackout is set from midnight to 4 AM on Friday as a precaution against potential air strikes.
Flight operations at Bikaner, Kishangarh in Ajmer, and Jodhpur airports have been suspended until May 10 as a safety measure. Security along the Gujarat coast has also been heightened, with police personnel ordered back to duty due to the current situation.
In West Bengal, the government has canceled all state employee leaves until further notice, citing the ongoing circumstances as the reason for this decision.